Eczema is a disease of the skin that is found in both men and women. It affects people of all ages, but is more common in children, which means that it is possible to grow out of it. Eczema is also known as vicharchika in ayurvedic medicine and is thought to be a mild form of leprosy. There are two distinct types of eczema. One is called exogenous, and the other is endogenous. It is thought that the lack of moisture in the skin that makes it vulnerable to bacteria and viruses, which in turn worsens the condition.

Typically, ayurvedic medicine seeks to prevent diseases by keeping or returning the three doshas to the correct levels. The reason you develop a condition is because one of the doshas is either present in excess or is insufficient. In the case of eczema, pitta is thought to be out of balance with the other doshas.

Symptoms of Eczema

• Redness and swelling, often accompanied by itching

• Scaling or sometimes blistering of the skin

• Cracking

• Dry, leather-like thickening or crusting of the skin

Herbal Remedies Which Helpful for Eczema

• Linseed Poultice– Mix equal amounts of lime water and linseed oil together

• Neem Leaves– Can be used in a variety of ways for relief

• Madhuca– Rub sesame oil on the leaves, warm, then place on problem areas and cover with a bandage; needs to be changed every few hours

• Haemafine Syrup– One added benefit of using this remedy is that it will also improve your complexion

Other things you can do to reduce the symptoms:

• When bathing, use only warm water with a small amount of a mild soap

• Generously apply moisturizer to affected areas

• Try not to scratch

• Massage– To stimulate your circulation

Bloodletting is also occasionally used to treat eczema, but it is imperative that it be performed by a qualified person. There are also restrictions as to who would be considered a good candidate for this treatment. Talk to your practitioner for more information if you are interested in this treatment.

Of course, reducing the stress in your life could also help reduce the symptoms. This is important because ayurvedic thought puts great emphasis on the mind and body connection. Learning to recognize things that trigger outbreaks can help you if you learn how to recognize and eliminate or reduce the triggers. Also, eliminating certain irritants from your diet, like eggs, fish, and soy products might be helpful. Before making any changes to your diet, be sure to discuss them with your doctor and/or practitioner.

If you can visit an ayurvedic or herbal store to purchase the ingredients, here is one home remedy you might want to try:

• Mix eight parts of sesamum oil with sixteen parts of arka juice and one part turmeric

• Boil, stirring frequently

• Make into an oil

Before starting any treatment, make sure to visit your practitioner who can help you by making an accurate diagnosis and suggesting which remedies might give you the best results